The five—Mohammed Adawa, Mohammed Hassan, Mohammed Noor, Assistant Chief Ibrahim Gabow, and Senior Chief Abdi Suraw—had been held captive for several weeks following their abduction while traveling from Wargadud to Elwak.
According to elders involved in the delicate negotiations, the chiefs were freed after what was described as “intense behind-the-scenes talks.”
The abduction occurred just a day before President William Ruto began his tour of the Northeastern region.
While addressing residents in Mandera town, the President assured the nation that the government was committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted chiefs.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo echoed this assurance weeks later, hinting at undisclosed efforts underway, including cross-border engagements with officials from a neighboring country.
“There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes,” Omollo said during an interview at Spice FM. “These are government officers and their safety is a priority.”
The return of the chiefs marks a significant breakthrough amid ongoing concerns about insecurity in the region.
Local leaders and residents have applauded the efforts by both the community elders and the government in securing their safe return.
